The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revealed plans to invest $4 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act to develop two new programmes aimed at transforming the country’s port infrastructure. The Clean Ports Program will receive $3 billion and will invest in developing zero-emission port equipment and technology that reduces climate and air pollutants. The programme will also focus on improving air quality at ports and surrounding communities. The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program, on the other hand, will invest $1 billion to reduce vehicle emissions. The programme aims to provide funding to offset the replacement costs of heavy-duty commercial vehicles with zero-emission variants. It will also support the deployment of the infrastructure needed to charge, fuel, and maintain these emissions-free vehicles.
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EPA Administrator Michael S. Reagan said, “Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, we are transforming our nation’s infrastructure for the better, all while protecting the health of underserved communities that are too often overburdened by pollution. With $4 billion in funding for clean ports and clean transportation from the Inflation Reduction Act, we can deliver cleaner air and healthier communities, support good-paying jobs, and strengthen local economies.
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To ensure that the programmes are developed to the highest standards, the EPA is opening up for public input. The deadline for submissions is set for June 5, 2023. The announcement was made as EPA Administrator Reagan was touring the Port of Savannah, Georgia, which had previously received $9 million in Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) funds to reduce diesel emissions and improve air quality by upgrading and replacing older freight trucks, cargo handling equipment, and marine engines with cleaner models. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff said, “I continue working to upgrade Georgia’s port infrastructure and establish Georgia as the national leader in advanced energy technology.” The new Clean Ports Program will continue to build on the electrification initiative already achieved there. The EPA’s new programmes will not only reduce pollution, but they will also create jobs and help to strengthen local economies.
